Plant cover device with upper end and lower tubular end and related methods

ABSTRACT

A plant cover device may include an enclosure having an upper end, a lower tubular end opposite the upper end, and a medial seam coupling the upper end and the lower tubular end. The upper end may include panels coupled together to partially define a plant-receiving cavity therein. Each of the panels may have a major mesh surface, and a panel seam extending along a peripheral edge of the major mesh surface, adjacent panels being coupled together at respective panel seams. The lower tubular end may include a major mesh surface and having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end being coupled to the medial seam. The lower tubular end may also partially define the plant-receiving cavity therein. The enclosure may have a curved flexible support carried by the medial seam, and a pole extending vertically from a surface to an apex of the enclosure.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is based upon prior filed copending Application No.62/795,864 filed Jan. 23, 2019, is a continuation-in-part of copendingapplication Ser. No. 15/359,111 filed Nov. 22, 2016, which claimspriority to Application No. 62/259,188 filed Nov. 24, 2015, and is acontinuation-in-part of copending Application No. PCT/US2018/046166filed Aug. 10, 2018, which claim priority to Application No. 62/543,567filed Aug. 10, 2017, the entire subject matter of these applications isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to the field of agricultural devices,and, more particularly, to disease prevention device and relatedmethods.

BACKGROUND

The agricultural industry is a large and robust industry worldwide. Tomeet worldwide demand for agricultural products, producers utilizenumerous methods to maximize production in agricultural crops. Forexample, one technique includes removing unwanted growth (i.e. soilcultivation) around the base of crops to enhance growth and production.Typically, this is accomplished with the application of herbicide aroundthe base of most crops.

Although there are effective herbicides, there are several drawbacks totheir use. Firstly, the adaptation of herbicide resistant “super weeds”has reduced the effectiveness of many herbicides. Secondly, herbicidescannot be applied toward organic fields or directly over non-GMO crops.Thirdly, the application of herbicides may weaken the crop's naturaldefense, and application to crops prior to harvest may result in cropdamage when contacted by spray drift or when absorbed from the soil bythe plant's root system.

Another technique is implementation of a robust fertilization program.Although fertilization programs do enhance growth of crops, they can becostly to implement and maintain. Moreover, herbicides cannot be appliedtoward organic fields or directly over non-GMO crops.

Yet another technique is a robust insecticide program. Of course, thisprograms provides benefits from evasive insects that harm the crop.Another benefit is the insecticide program may help prevent infection ofthe crop from disease, such as fungus and bacterial infections.

One example disease is citrus greening, also known as Huanglongbing(HLB) or yellow dragon disease. Citrus greening disease is one of themost serious citrus plant diseases in the world because there iscurrently no cure. The disease has devastated millions of acres ofcitrus crops throughout the United States and abroad. Citrus greeningdisease is spread by a disease-infected insect, the Asian citrus psyllid

The infected insect spreads the disease as it feeds on the leaves andstems of citrus trees. Citrus greening disease is further spread bymoving infected plants and plant materials.

The disease has affected the entire US citrus industry, and has beenreported in 33 nations worldwide. Infected citrus trees produce fruitsthat are green, misshapen and bitter, unsuitable for sale as fresh fruitor for juice. Most infected trees die within a few years and have fewproductive years, if any.

Citrus greening disease is typically managed using insecticides tocontrol the psyllid population. Evidence shows that reducing psyllidpopulations via insecticide application not only slows the rate ofcitrus greening disease spread but also reduces severity of the diseaseonce established.

Young trees that produce multiple flushes throughout the year are atgreater risk of greening infection than mature trees because of theattraction of adult psyllids to the new flush. Even without the disease,young trees need to be protected for about four years from psyllids andleaf miners to grow optimally. In some approaches, soil-applied systemicinsecticides provide long lasting control of psyllids, but the chemicalsmay be environmentally harmful.

In other approaches, tree covers that enclose a tree to prevent insectinfiltration are deployed. These tree cover approaches, however, maysuffer from one or more drawbacks. The tree cover may rest its weightagainst the tree, which can damage foliage and branches of young trees.In some approaches, the tree covers may have a Skelton-like frameworkthat prevents the cover from resting against the foliage, but theframework may provide for a more complicated install.

SUMMARY

Generally, a plant cover device may include an enclosure comprising anupper end, a lower tubular end opposite the upper end, and a medial seamcoupling the upper end and the lower tubular end. The upper end maycomprise a plurality of panels coupled together to partially define aplant-receiving cavity therein. Each of the plurality of panels may havea major mesh surface, and a panel seam extending along a peripheral edgeof the major mesh surface, adjacent panels being coupled together atrespective panel seams. The lower tubular end may include a major meshsurface and having a first end and a second end opposite the first end,the first end being coupled to the medial seam. The lower tubular endmay also partially define the plant-receiving cavity therein. Theenclosure may comprise a curved flexible support carried by the medialseam, and a pole extending vertically from a surface to an apex of theenclosure.

More specifically, each of the plurality of panels may comprise apentagon-shaped panel. Each of the plurality of panels may comprise atriangle-shaped section, and a rectangle shaped section coupled to thetriangle-shaped section. The respective triangle-shaped sections of theplurality of panels may define the apex of the enclosure and anuppermost portion of the plant-receiving cavity.

In some embodiments, the second end of the lower tubular end maycomprise a solid section at a lowermost end of the lower tubular end.The solid section may be opaque to visible light radiation andwaterproof. The second end of the lower tubular end may comprise adrawstring coupled at a lowermost end of the lower tubular end. Thecurved flexible support may comprise a loop-shaped support, for example.The curved flexible support may comprise a single piece flexible rod.The medial seam may comprise an annular sleeve, and the curved flexiblesupport may be carried within the annular sleeve. For example, each meshsurface may comprise a plurality of mesh openings, each opening having adiameter of less than 300 μm.

Another aspect is directed to a method of making a plant cover device.The method may include forming an enclosure comprising an upper end, alower tubular end opposite the upper end, and a medial seam coupling theupper end and the lower tubular end. The upper end may include aplurality of panels coupled together to partially define aplant-receiving cavity therein. Each of the plurality of panels may havea major mesh surface, and a panel seam extending along a peripheral edgeof the major mesh surface. Adjacent panels may be coupled together atrespective panel seams. The lower tubular end may comprise a major meshsurface and have a first end and a second end opposite the first end,the first end being coupled to the medial seam. The lower tubular endmay also partially define the plant-receiving cavity therein. Theenclosure may comprise a curved flexible support carried by the medialseam. The method may comprise providing a pole to extend vertically froma surface to an apex of the enclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first example of the plant coversystem installed so as to enclose a young tree.

FIG. 2 is a front view of an example of the plant cover bag.

FIG. 3 is a back view thereof.

FIG. 4 is another back view of the plant cover bag showing the marginsseparated to increase the size of the opening.

FIG. 5 is a back view of another example of the plant cover bag with aslot that extends to the upper section of the bag.

FIG. 6 is a back view of another example of the plant cover bag with aslot that extends closer to the side apex than in the first example.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a second example of the plant coversystem installed so as to enclose a young tree.

FIG. 8 is a front view of the bag in the second example.

FIG. 9 is a back view thereof.

FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic illustration of the first example of the plantcover system enclosing a young tree with the wall of the bag shown astransparent so that the interior of the bag is more clearly visible.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another example of the plant coversystem installed so as to enclose a young tree where the bag includes abase member.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another example of the plant coversystem installed so as to enclose a young tree where the bag includes abase member and the slot extends further up the bag than in the exampleof FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a partial view of the base member.

FIG. 14 is a top perspective view of the base member with the marginsseparated.

FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the base member.

FIG. 16 is an example of an irrigation line that may be used.

FIG. 17 is an example of a support member that may be used.

FIG. 18 is another example of a support member that may be used.

FIG. 19 is a schematic side view of a plant cover device, according tothe present disclosure.

FIG. 20 is another schematic side view of the plant cover device fromFIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is a schematic bottom plan view of the plant cover device fromFIG. 19.

FIG. 22 is a portion of a schematic bottom plan view of the plant coverdevice from FIG. 19.

FIG. 23 is a portion of a schematic bottom plan view of the plant coverdevice from FIG. 19 with the first and second fasteners opened.

FIG. 24A is a schematic side view of another embodiment of the plantcover device, according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 24B is a schematic side view of the support from the plant coverdevice of FIG. 24A.

FIG. 24C is a schematic side view of a portion of the support from theplant cover device of FIG. 24A.

FIG. 25 is a schematic side view of another embodiment of a plant coverdevice, according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 26A is a schematic top view of the plant cover device of FIG. 25.

FIG. 26B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a medial seam of theplant cover device of FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a schematic side view of the plant cover device of FIG. 25during assembly.

FIG. 28 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of aplant cover device, according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment ofa plant cover device, according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 30 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of aplant cover device, according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 31 is a schematic top view of another embodiment of a plant coverdevice with the mesh removed, according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 32 is a schematic top view of yet another embodiment of a plantcover device with the mesh removed, according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 33 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment ofa plant cover device, according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 34 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment ofa plant cover device without the plant, according to the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 35 is a schematic cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment ofa plant cover device, according to the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which several embodiments ofthe invention are shown. This present disclosure may, however, beembodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limitedto the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments areprovided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and willfully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in theart. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout; prime notation isused to indicate similar elements in alternative embodiments; and base100 reference numerals are used to indicate similar elements inalternative embodiments.

Young citrus trees are at greater risk than mature trees of infectionbecause of frequent leaf flush (fresh growth) which attracts the psyllidas well as many other pests as the young tree grows. The plant coversystem described here may advantageously be used to protect young citrustrees for the first three years and beyond after planting. However, itshould be recognized that the cover can also be used on a wide variety,size, and age of fruit trees, ornamentals, vegetables, and the like. Itis to be understood that the term “plant” as used herein may includetrees. For example, “a plant cover” refers to a cover for trees andother plants.

Referring to FIG. 1, a first example embodiment of the plant coversystem 100 includes a plant cover bag 200 upwardly supported by avertical support member 300 over a tree 102. The bottom of the bag 200is closed around the trunk 104 of the tree 102. An optional trunk cover400 encircles the trunk. A closure 500 closes the bottom of the bag 200around the trunk 104.

Additional details of the bag 200 are now described with reference toFIGS. 2-6. The bag 200 has a generally kite shaped exterior perimeter202 and is formed from a first kite shaped panel 204 and a second kiteshaped panel that are joined together along a seam 208 forming theexterior perimeter 202 by a conventional joining mechanism such as usingan adhesive, sewing, stapling, or the like.

The seam 208 adds rigidity to the exterior perimeter 202, allowing theexterior perimeter 202 to maintain its kite shape without a separatesupport frame when suspended over a tree. This allows the midsection ofthe bag 200 to bulge out around the tree's foliage so that the bag 200does not rest its weight against the foliage.

An upper section 210 of the bag 200 is generally triangle shaped. Alower section 212 of the bag 200 is generally trapezoid shaped. A bottomend of the bag 200 includes a rim 214 that circumscribes an opening 216to the bag's interior 218.

A slot 220 interrupts the seam 208, extends vertically from the opening216, and includes a pair of opposed margins 222 that includecooperatively interlocking parts 224 that can temporarily be joined andseparated to increase the size of the opening when installing over aplant. The interlocking joining mechanism for the margins 222 may be ahook and loop type closure such as hook and loop interface, a zipper, orthe like. The entire length of the slot 220 may be completely closed toprevent insects from entering through the slot 220.

Referring to FIGS. 5 & 6, the length of the slot 220 may vary amongdifferent examples to accommodate different sizes and shapes of plantsand trees. In the example of FIG. 6, the slot 220 extends from theopening 216 to the upper section 210 of the bag 200 and terminatesbefore reaching the bag's top apex 224. In the example of FIG. 7, theslot 220 extends from the opening 216 and part of the way to the sideapex 226. If the plant being covered is a fruit or vegetable plant, theextended slot 220 can be opened to harvest the fruits or vegetables fromthe plant and then closed.

The panels 204, 206 form a wall that encloses the interior of the bag200. The panels 204, 206 may be made at least partially or completely ofa mesh material, which provides water permeability and lighttransmissivity, but prevents intrusion by small insects such aspsyllids. The mesh size may be, for example, 50 mesh or 50 by 25 threadsper square inch. Such a mesh size will be sufficient to preventintrusion by psyllids, aphids, white flys, mealy bugs, leaf miners,thrips, grasshoppers, ants, and orange dogs. The bag 200 may alsoprotect the enclosed foliage from frost, hail, and wind damage.

Referring to FIGS. 7-9 a second example embodiment of the bag 200′includes three kite shaped panels instead of two. In FIGS. 7-9 a primesymbol (′) denotes features corresponding to the previous example. Thethree kite shaped panels 204′, 205, & 206′ are joined together at theseam 208′ so that the bag has three side vertices 226′. Thisconfiguration provides more interior volume than in the first example toaccommodate larger plants and trees.

Referring to FIG. 10, the vertical support member 300 may be insertedinto the ground like a stake adjacent to the tree 102 so that it extendsvertically alongside and in close proximity to the tree 102. The top end302 upwardly supports the bag 200, keeping the bag 200 from resting onthe tree 102 and suspended above the ground. The top of the tree and thetop end 302 are offset by a height H1 to allow the tree 102 to growwithin the bag 200. The top apex 224 of the bag 200 is positioned atopthe top end 302 of the vertical support member 300. The seam 208provides enough rigidity to the bag 200 to maintain its kite shape. Theopening 216 is closed around the trunk 104 of the tree 102 with theclosure 500.

The vertical support member 300 may take on many different forms. In theexample shown, the vertical support member is a rod-shaped or tubularstake with a plastic or rubber cap 304 on the top end 302 that preventsthe vertical support member from causing wear to the bag 200 when thebag 200 moves in the wind, which could generate holes in the bag 200. Inother examples, it may include arms extending horizontally from thestake to support the sides of the bag 200 and produce a support frame.

The closure 500 is a string, belt, band, or the like that circumscribesthe bag 200 and can be tightened to close the opening 216. The closure500 may take many different forms such as a drawstring integrally formedwith the bag 200, a separate string or rope that can be tied around thebag, a zip or cable tie, a belt, an elastic band, and the like.

The bag's 200 kite shape provides an advantage over other conventionalplant covers. The kite shape makes the bag 200 somewhat form fitting tothe shape of a tree. It is skinnier at the bottom and top and bulges inthe middle to accommodate branches and foliage. The kite shape alsoprovides room for the tree to grow both taller and wider within the bag200.

The trunk cover 400 encloses the trunk 104 of the tree by encircling it.The trunk cover 400 may be a conventional tubular tree trunk cover ortree trunk wrap. In the example of FIG. 1, the trunk cover 400 hasplastic tubular construction and extends from the ground up the trunk.The bag's opening 216 is tightened closed against the trunk cover 400around the trunk 104. The trunk cover 400 may have a reflective exteriorsurface. The trunk cover 400 may reduce the amount of pesticides thatneed to be applied to the tree because it will prevent insect damage.

In an exemplary method of covering a plant using the bag, plant foliageis positioned within the bag 200 by lowering the bag 200 over the plantthrough the opening 216 in the bag 200. The bag is suspended the bag ona stake positioned next to the plant. The stake extends above the top ofthe plant. The opening is then closed around a stem or trunk of theplant. To make it easier to position the foliage within the bag 200, theslot 220 may be temporarily opened to increase the size of the opening216. Once the foliage is within the bag, the slot 220 may then beclosed.

The bag 200 is easily removable from the plant or tree when no longerneeded even though the plant or tree covered might have grown becausethe slot 220 can be opened during removal. The bag 200 and verticalsupport member 300 may then be reused. The bag 200 is lightweight andflexible, allowing for efficient storage and/or shipment. When not inuse, the bag 200 may be folded or rolled up for storage.

Another example embodiment of the plant cover system 200″ will now bedescribed with reference to FIGS. 11-16. This example includes a bag200″ including any of the features already described and a base member300. The base member 300 is attached to the bag 200″ along a seam 302.

The base member 300 includes an upper surface 304, a lower surface 306opposite the upper surface 304, and a perimeter 308. The perimeter 308in the example shown is substantially circular. The perimeter 308 mayhave different shapes in different examples.

The base member 300 includes an irrigation member 310 configured toprovide a mechanism for irrigating a plant within the bag 200″. In theexample embodiment shown, the irrigation member 310 includes a tubularwall 312 defining an opening 314 and an interior space 316 extendingsubstantially around the perimeter 308.

The interior space 316 receives an irrigation line 400, such as theexample shown in FIG. 16. The irrigation line 400 is adapted to deliverwater to the plant by including openings 402 along its length throughwhich water can escape. Water leaving the irrigation line 400 exits theirrigation member 310 by openings 320 formed in the bottom 306 of theirrigation member 400. In this example the irrigation member 310 ispositioned along the perimeter 308 in order to deliver water to theouter reaches of the plant's root system. It is not necessary for theirrigation member 310 to be positioned along the perimeter 308 in everyexample.

The base member 300 may include a shape maintaining feature formaintaining the shape of the perimeter 308. Such a shape maintainingfeature may be attached to the base member about or along the perimeter308. The shape maintaining feature may include a wire, cable, rope,resilient pole, or the like.

The base member 300 defines an opening 322 through which the base of theplant may be positioned. The opening 322 in the example shown coincideswith the seam 302 where the base member 300 and bag 200″ are connected.The shape of the opening 322 is triangular in the example shown, but itmay be another shape in other examples.

The base member 300 includes a pair of opposed margins 324 havingcooperatively interlocking parts 326 that can temporarily be joined andseparated to increase the size of the opening 322. When joined together,the margins 324 define a closed slot 328.

The margins 324 of the base member 300 may be a continuation of themargins 222 of the bag 200″ such that when the margin 222, 324 areseparated the slot 328 in the base member 300 and slot in the bag 200″open together to form a single continuous opening for placing the bag200″ over a plant.

The base member 300 may be made of water impermeable material such asplastic or the like to maintain water used for irrigation in thevicinity of the plant's roots in order to enhance the efficiency ofirrigation. The base member 300 also forms a barrier to insects andother pests around the base of the plant.

The base member 300 may be secured in position around the plant via manymechanisms such as anchoring with stakes and/or by placing soil on topof the perimeter to weigh down the base member 300. Optionally, the topsurface 304 of the base member 300 includes a reflective material thatprovides a mirror like finish. The base member 300 may also be usedwithout the bag as a mechanism for retaining water in the vicinity ofthe plant's roots.

Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, in order to hold the central portion ofthe base member 300 off the ground, a support frame 500 may be used. Thesupport frame may be made of metal, plastic or the like. The supportframe 500 includes two inverted V-shaped stands 502 interconnected by atleast one cross beam 504. In use, the bottom of the V-shaped stands 502is placed in contact with the ground and the weight of the base member300 is supported by the support frame 500.

Referring now additionally to FIGS. 19-22, a plant cover device 630 isnow described. The plant cover device 630 illustratively includes anenclosure 631, a base 632 coupled to the enclosure, and a support 633extending vertically from a ground surface to an apex of the enclosure.

In the illustrated embodiment, the support 633 (shown in dashed lines)comprises a simple pole support. In other embodiments, the support 633may comprise additional lateral supports at a lowermost end adjacent theground surface. Also, in some embodiments, the support 633 may includelateral arms extending from the uppermost section of the support,creating a canopy of sorts within the enclosure 631, or a dome-shapedportion for supporting the enclosure.

The enclosure 631 illustratively includes a plurality of panels 634a-634 c coupled together to define a plant-receiving cavity therein.Each of the plurality of panels 634 a-634 c has a “kite-shape”, or inother words, the shape of two adjacent oblique triangles with abuttingbase sides.

This plant-receiving cavity is perhaps best seen in the embodiment ofFIG. 7. Each of the plurality of panels 634 a-634 c includes a majormesh surface 635 a-635 c, and a seam 636 a-636 c extending along aperipheral edge of the major mesh surface. The mesh openings in themajor mesh surface 635 a-635 c are sized to as to prevent penetration bydisease carrying insects.

Adjacent panels 634 a-634 c are coupled together at respective seams 636a-636 c. Each seam 636 a-636 c may comprise one or more of a stitchingseam, an adhesive seam, or an integrally formed seam (e.g. attachedusing a heat gun applied to thermoplastic material).

The enclosure 631 illustratively includes a first fastener 637 adjacentthe peripheral edge of a respective panel 634 a-634 c. The firstfastener 637 extends along only a portion of the peripheral edge of arespective panel 634 a-634 c (e.g. the illustrated 33% ±10). In otherembodiments, the first fastener 637 extends along a greater portion ofthe peripheral edge of a respective panel 634 a-634 c, such as extendingalong the edge to the corner or along an entire longitudinal side of theenclosure 631.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first fastener 637 comprises opposinghook and loop interfaces on peripheral edges of adjacent panels 634a-634 c. Of course, in other embodiments, other fastening arrangementscan be used on peripheral edges of adjacent panels 634 a-634 c, such asa button and slit interface, or a snap button interface (e.g. rivetedsnap fastener).

The base 632 illustratively includes a solid major surface 638 extendingradially outward, and a second fastener 640 carried by the solid majorsurface and extending radially from a center to an outer peripheraledge. The base 632 illustratively has a circle-shape. In otherembodiments, the base 632 may have other shapes, such as a square, anoval, or a triangle

As perhaps best seen in FIG. 23, the first fastener 637 and the secondfastener 640 are aligned and configured to provide access to theplant-receiving cavity. In particular, the first fastener 637 and thesecond fastener 640 are directly aligned in an abutting arrangement sothat a user can readily open the first fastener 637 and the secondfastener 640 in one easy action.

In particular, the plurality of panels 634 a-634 c illustrativelydefines a trunk receiving opening 641 at a bottom thereof. In someembodiments, the plant cover device 630 includes a tie or tether (seeFIGS. 1, 7 & 10) configured to bind the lower portion of the enclosure631 to the truck of the plant. The base 632 illustratively defines amedial opening 642 coupled (e.g. via a seam constituted similarly to theseams 636 a-636 c in the plurality of panels 634 a-634 c) to the trunkreceiving opening 641. The second fastener 640 extends from the medialopening 642 to the peripheral edge of the base 632. Each of the trunkreceiving opening 641 and the medial opening 642 is illustrativelytriangle-shaped. In other embodiments, the trunk receiving opening 641and the medial opening 642 may have other shapes, such as a square, anoval, or a circle.

The base 632 illustratively includes a peripheral passageway 643 carriedby the solid major surface 638 and configured to receive a drip line(not shown). The base 632 illustratively includes a plurality of spacedapart notches 644 a-644 c along the peripheral passageway 643 configuredto receive respective nozzles from the drip line. As perhaps best seenin FIG. 22, each of the plurality of spaced apart notches 644 a-644 ccomprises opposing first edges 645 a-645 b, and opposing second edges646 a-646 b. The first and second edges 645 a-645 b, 646 a-646 b arecanted with respect to each other. Each second edge 646 a-646 b issubstantially perpendicular a (equating to an angle of 75°-105°) to atangential line of the outer periphery of the base 632.

In some embodiments, the major mesh surface 635 a-635 c of each of theplurality of panels 634 a-634 c may comprise a polyvinyl chloride (PVC)material. The major mesh surface 635 a-635 c of each of the plurality ofpanels 634 a-634 c may comprise a colored mesh material configured toselectively diffract one or more spectral portions (i.e. frequencyranges) of UV radiation and/or visible light radiation.

Advantageously, the major mesh surface 635 a-635 c of each of theplurality of panels 634 a-634 c can be of different color in order tomanipulate or enhance the different spectral portions of the UVspectrum. This is important for keeping a plant in a vegetative state orforcing it into a flowering state in regards to some of the intendeduses. As will be appreciated, different spectral portions of the visiblelight spectrum and the UV spectrum can have wide ranging effects ondifferent plants. For example, for UV radiation, —No exposure producesbetter growth; Violet—Enhances the color, taste, and aroma of plantsBlue—Increases the growth rate of plants; Green—Enhances chlorophyllproduction and is used as a pigment for proper plant viewing;Yellow—Plants exhibit less growth compared to blue and red light;Red—When combined with blue light it yields more leaves and crops,depending on what is being grown; and Far Red—Speeds up the Phytochromeconversion which reduces the time a plant takes to go into a night-timestate. This allows the plant to produce a greater yield. See Klein, R.M., Edsall, P. C., & Gentile, A. C. (1965). Effects of Near Ultravioletand Green Radiations on Plant Growth. Plant Physiology, 40(5), 903-906;and “Plant Growth”, Chris Thiele, May 29, 2018, Grobo Inc. website, eachof which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The base 632 illustratively includes a reflective material on an uppersurface thereof. In some embodiments, the base 632 may comprise awaterproof material.

Helpfully, this permits for conservation of water in several ways.Firstly, the integrated drip line passageway permits water to bedeployed efficiently with minimal evaporation. Second, the reflectiveupper surface reduces the amount of thermal radiation absorbed by theground area directly adjacent the root ball, permitting more moisture tobe absorbed by the plant and not evaporated. Thirdly, the waterproofbarrier also provides an additional water barrier, keeping moisturewhere it can be used. Also, the base 632 may prevent unintentional driftor runoff of pesticides or fertilizer applied around the base of theplant.

Moreover, the UV diffraction effect from the plurality of panels 634a-634 c may the improve growth rate of the plant. In particular,Applicant has observed a 20% increase in growth with the application ofthe plant cover device 630. These enhanced growth benefits are inaddition to the disease prevention purpose provided by the enclosure631, as discussed with regards to the earlier embodiments. Also, thebase 632 also provides another barrier to disease spread by protectingthe soil adjacent the root ball from insects.

Another aspect is directed to a method for making a plant cover device630. The method includes forming an enclosure 631 comprising a pluralityof panels 634 a-634 c coupled together to define a plant-receivingcavity therein. Each of the plurality of panels 634 a-634 c has a majormesh surface 635 a-635 c, and a seam 636 a-636 c extending along aperipheral edge of the major mesh surface. Adjacent panels 634 a-634 care coupled together at respective seams. The enclosure 631 includes afirst fastener 637 adjacent the peripheral edge of a respective panel634 b. The method includes forming a base 632 coupled to the enclosure631 and comprising a solid major surface 638 extending radially outward,and a second fastener 640 carried by the solid major surface andextending radially. The method further includes providing a support 633to extend vertically from a ground surface to an apex of the enclosure631. The first fastener 637 and the second fastener 640 are aligned andconfigured to provide access to the plant-receiving cavity.

Referring now additionally to FIGS. 24A-24C, a plant cover device 730 isnow described. In this embodiment of the plant cover device 730, thoseelements already discussed above with respect to FIGS. 19-23 areincremented by 700 and most require no further discussion herein. Thisembodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that this plant coverdevice 730 illustratively omits the base portion 632 of FIGS. 19-23.This embodiment also includes a different structure for the support 733.The support 733 illustratively includes a pole 750 extending from theground surface, and a cap portion 752 coupled to an uppermost portion ofthe pole. The support 733 illustratively includes a plurality of arms751 a-751 c extending laterally from the cap portion 752 and configuredto support the enclosure 731.

As perhaps best seen in FIG. 24C, the cap portion 752 illustrativelyincludes a body 753 defining a lower recess configured to receive theuppermost portion of the pole 750. The cap portion 752 illustrativelyincludes a plurality of elbows 754 a-754 c extending from the body 753and respectively defining arm receiving passageways 755. The armreceiving passageways 755 are configured to respectively receive theplurality of arms 751 a-751 c.

In yet other embodiments (not shown), the support 733 may alternativelycomprise a twisted arrangement of three (1 wire for each arm) or morewires configured to be anchored within the uppermost portion of the pole750. In particular, the wires would be formed into a twisted anchorinserted into the uppermost portion of the pole 750. The other ends ofthe wires would extend laterally and straight fashion to support theenclosure 731. The far distal ends of the wires would be curled downwardto avoid tearing the mesh material of the plurality of panels 734 a-734c. Positively, this embodiment would be less costly to manufacture thanthe embodiment of FIGS. 24A-24C.

Another embodiment of a plant cover device is now described. Thisembodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that this plant coverdevice illustratively comprises a trellis support structure. The trellissupport structure illustratively includes a plurality of cross-shapedsupports, each cross-shaped support having a ground support poleextending downward into a ground surface, first and second opposing armsextending laterally in opposite directions, and an upper arm extendingupward substantially perpendicular (i.e. 90°±20°) to the ground surface.Each of the arms comprises a distal tube, and a plurality of supportcables (e.g. the illustrated three support cables) extending through thedistal tubes.

Although not shown, the plurality of support cables are anchored to theground surface at opposite ends of the plant cover device. The plantcover device illustratively includes a plurality of enclosures (e.g. theillustrated enclosure of FIGS. 19-22) coupled to the plurality ofsupport cables.

Another embodiment of a plant cover device is now described. Thisembodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that this plant coverdevice illustratively comprises support comprising a vertical supportpole extending from a ground surface to an apex of the enclosure. Theplant cover device illustratively comprises a circle-shaped supportextending about externally the enclosure, and being coupled thereto.

Another embodiment of a plant cover device is now described. Thisembodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that this plant coverdevice illustratively comprises a support comprising a vertical supportpole extending from a ground surface, and a cap portion coupled to anuppermost portion of the vertical support pole. The supportillustratively includes a pair of arms extending opposite laterally anddefining a figure-8 shape, i.e. a pair of opposing loops (e.g.substantially circle-shaped loops). The center point of the figure-8shape extends through the cap portion. The enclosure is fitted over thesupport.

Another embodiment of a trellis structure support, is formed from aplurality of supports. The plurality of supports is aligned in a linearpattern to cover a plurality of plants. To define an enclosure, a meshfabric is positioned over the plurality of supports. The plurality ofsupports is aligned arm-to-arm so that the arms are all collinear; andthe plurality of supports is aligned so that the arms are all parallel.

Another embodiment of a support is now described. This embodimentdiffers from the previous embodiment in that this support illustrativelycomprises a plurality of figure-8 shaped arm pairs positioned verticallyon top of each other.

Another embodiment of a support is now described. This embodimentdiffers from the previous embodiment in that this support illustrativelycomprises a plurality of figure-8 shaped arm pairs positioned verticallyon top of each other. In this embodiment, there are two pairs offigure-8 shaped arms.

Another embodiment of a support is now described. This embodimentdiffers from the previous embodiment in that this support illustrativelycomprises a vertical extending support anchored in the ground surface,and a loop-shaped arm extending from an uppermost portion of thesupport.

Another embodiment of a support is now described. This embodimentdiffers from the previous embodiment in that this support illustrativelycomprises a vertical extending support pole anchored in a groundsurface, and a loop-shaped arm (e.g. the illustrated circle-shape)extending from an uppermost portion of the support. In this embodiment,the loop-shaped arm extends downward from the uppermost portion of thesupport.

Another embodiment of a plant cover device is now described. Thisembodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that this plant coverdevice illustratively comprises a support comprising a support poleextending from a ground surface, and an enclosure positioned over theuppermost portion of the pole. The support illustratively includes aplurality of arms extending opposite laterally. The distal ends of theplurality of arms are coupled to ends of the enclosure, and theplurality of arms extend in a cross shaped vertex directly above andcoupled to the apex of the enclosure.

Another embodiment of a plant cover device is now described. Thisembodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that this plant coverdevice illustratively comprises an enclosure having a cone-shaped upperportion, and a cylinder-shaped lower portion. The cylinder-shaped lowerportion illustratively comprises a sleeve extending along a bottomperiphery thereof.

The enclosure illustratively includes a ring support (e.g. elasticfiberglass pole) extending in the sleeve about the periphery of alowermost portion of the cylinder-shaped lower portion. The cone-shapedupper portion comprises a mesh material. The cylinder-shaped lowerportion comprises a mesh portion, and an opaque portion (e.g. blackcolored material). The opaque portion serves a similar purpose to thebase of the plant cover device 630 (FIGS. 19-22) described hereinabove.Advantageously, the enclosure is easily fabricated from a single pieceof material, which is fused together at peripheral edges via sewing,adhesive, or a heat gun, for example. The plant cover deviceillustratively includes a closure tying the cylinder-shaped lowerportion to a trunk of the plant.

Another embodiment of a plant cover device is now described. Thisembodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that this plant coverdevice illustratively comprises an enclosure having a cone-shaped upperportion, and a cylinder-shaped lower portion. The cylinder-shaped lowerportion illustratively comprises only a mesh material (i.e. the opaqueportion is omitted).

Advantageously, these embodiments provide a greater ratio of enclosurevolume to fabric area used than prior approaches. Moreover, in someembodiments, enclosure comprises a fastener (e.g. a zipper) extendingfrom the lowermost portion of the enclosure to the apex thereof, whichpermits easy install and removal on larger plants.

It should be appreciated that any of the above features described abovecan be applied to the embodiments disclosed hereinbelow.

Referring now to FIGS. 25-27, a plant cover device 1010 according to thepresent disclosure is now described. The plant cover device 1010illustratively comprises an enclosure 1011 comprising an upper end 1012,a lower tubular end 1013 opposite the upper end, and a medial seam 1014coupling the upper end and the lower tubular end.

The upper end 1012 illustratively includes a plurality of panels 1015a-1015 d coupled together to partially define a plant-receiving cavitytherein. Each of the plurality of panels 1015 a-1015 d has a major meshsurface, and a panel seam extending along a peripheral edge of the majormesh surface. Adjacent panels 1015 a-1015 d are coupled together atrespective panel seams. For example, the medial seam 1014 and the panelseams may each comprise stitched seams, adhesive seams, or fused seams(i.e. using a heat gun to fuse adjacent portions of the panels 1015a-1015 d).

In the illustrated embodiment, the enclosure 1011 has four faces 1030a-1030 d. In other embodiments, the enclosure 1011 may include adifferent number of faces, for example, three faces.

The lower tubular end 1013 illustratively comprises a major mesh surfaceand has a first end 1016 and a second end 1017 opposite the first end.The first end 1016 is coupled to the medial seam 1014. The lower tubularend 1013 also partially defines the plant-receiving cavity therein,illustrated with a plant 1026 for illustrative clarity.

The enclosure 1011 illustratively comprises a curved flexible support1020 carried by the medial seam 1014. The curved flexible support 1020may comprise a loop-shaped support, for example. In some embodiments,the loop-shaped support may have a circle or oval shape. The curvedflexible support 1020 may comprise a single piece flexible rod in someembodiments. In other embodiments, the curved flexible support 1020 maycomprise a plurality of segments coupled together.

In some embodiments, the curved flexible support 1020 comprisesfiberglass, which is flexible yet resilient enough to return to theoriginal shape (i.e. a memoryless material). The curved flexible support1020 may alternatively comprise flexible metallic wire. This embodimentis advantageous for at least the following reasons. The curved flexiblesupport 1020 may be folded over temporarily for shipping, which allowsfor efficient transport and retail packaging. Additionally, oncedeployed in the field, the curved flexible support 1020 can withstandadverse weather conditions and return to the original shape.

As perhaps best seen in FIG. 26B, the medial seam 1014 illustrativelyincludes an outer mesh piece 1028, and an annular sleeve 1027 coupled tothe outer mesh piece. The curved flexible support 1020 is carried withinthe annular sleeve 1027. In this embodiment, the annular sleeve 1027 iscarried internally within the plant-receiving cavity, but in otherembodiments, the annular sleeve 1027 may be carried externally. In someembodiments, the annular sleeve 1027 is radially contiguous about themedial seam 1014. In other embodiments, the annular sleeve 1027 maycomprise one or more openings for installation of the curved flexiblesupport 1020 by a user.

The enclosure 1011 illustratively comprises a pole 1021 extendingvertically from a surface 1018 to an apex of the enclosure. In someembodiments, the surface 1018 comprises a ground surface, but may alsocomprise a potted soil surface (e.g. tower garden applications).

As perhaps best seen in FIG. 25, each of the plurality of panels 1015a-1015 d comprises a pentagon-shaped panel. Each of the plurality ofpanels 1015 a-1015 d comprises a triangle-shaped section 1022 a-1022 d,and a rectangle shaped section 1023 a-1023 d coupled to thetriangle-shaped section. The respective triangle-shaped sections 1022a-1022 d of the plurality of panels 1015 a-1015 d define the apex of theenclosure 1011 and an uppermost portion of the plant-receiving cavity.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second end 1017 of the lower tubularend 1013 comprises a solid section 1024 at a lowermost end of the lowertubular end. The solid section 1024 is opaque to visible light radiationand waterproof. In some applications, the lowermost portion of the solidsection 1024 is coupled to the surface 1018 via a plurality of stakes,for example. In some embodiments, the solid section 1024 may comprise areflective material.

Advantageously, when the plant cover device 1010 is used in fieldapplications, the solid section 1024 provides shade around the rootball. The shade is helpful for a couple of reasons: the permanent shadekills weeds, and the permanent shade reduces evaporation of waterapplied to the root ball (e.g. from low flow irrigation systems, such asdrip lines). Moreover, the waterproof feature further reducesevaporation of the applied water. Also, the solid section 1024 providesa thermal insulation barrier, retaining ground thermal energy when theambient temperature drops.

The second end 1017 of the lower tubular end 1013 illustrativelyincludes a drawstring 1025 coupled at a lowermost end of the lowertubular end. In some applications, the drawstring 1025 is used to bindthe solid section 1024 to a trunk of the plant, sealing in theplant-receiving cavity.

Each mesh surface of the enclosure 1011 comprises a plurality of meshopenings, each opening having a diameter of less than 300 μm. As will beappreciated, this mesh size is sufficient to provide a barrier to Asiancitrus psyllid, and therefor citrus greening disease transmission. Itshould be appreciated that the upper and side portions of the enclosure1011 are sealed to provide a proper barrier to insects.

As perhaps best seen in FIG. 27, the method of assembly of the enclosure1011 is shown, which begins with several flat mesh pieces. The lowertubular end 1013 is formed from a single strip of mesh material. Each ofthe plurality of panels 1015 a-1015 d is formed from a custom cut meshpiece in the illustrated pentagon shape. Subsequently, the four panelpieces are coupled to the single strip of mesh material via the medialseam 1014 a-1014 d to define four faces 1030 a-1030 d for the enclosure1011. At this point, the mesh piece is arranged in tubular form andopposing ends 1031 a-1031 b of the mesh piece are coupled together at alongitudinal seam. Then, the triangle-shaped sections 1022 a-1022 d arecoupled together to define the apex of the plant-receiving cavity.

Another aspect is directed to a method of making a plant cover device1010. The method includes forming an enclosure 1011 comprising an upperend 1012, a lower tubular end 1013 opposite the upper end, and a medialseam 1014 coupling the upper end and the lower tubular end. The upperend 1012 includes a plurality of panels 1015 a-1015 d coupled togetherto partially define a plant-receiving cavity therein. Each of theplurality of panels 1015 a-1015 d has a major mesh surface, and a panelseam extending along a peripheral edge of the major mesh surface.Adjacent panels 1015 a-1015 d are coupled together at respective panelseams. The lower tubular end 1013 comprises a major mesh surface andhave a first end 1016 and a second end 1017 opposite the first end, thefirst end being coupled to the medial seam 1014. The lower tubular end1013 also partially defines the plant-receiving cavity therein. Theenclosure 1011 comprises a curved flexible support 1020 carried by themedial seam 1014. The method comprises providing a pole 1021 to extendvertically from a surface 1018 to an apex of the enclosure 1011.

Referring now to FIG. 28, a plant cover device 1100 is now described. Aswill be appreciated, this plant cover device 1100 is intended for rowcrop applications (i.e. a long line of plants 1101 are planted in a nearlinear path). Of course, the plant cover device 1100 can be used inother applications. The plant cover device 1100 illustratively comprisesa spreader device 1108, and a mesh 1107 over the spreader device. Aswill be appreciated, the mesh 1107 is comprises a mesh piece long enoughto extend between ends of a row crop segment. For drawing clarity, onlyone plant 1101 is illustrated, but it should be appreciated that the rowmay comprise a large number of plants.

The spreader device 1108 illustratively comprises a support 1102extending from a ground surface 1110, a bracket 1103 coupled to anuppermost portion of the support, and a pair of support arms 1104 a-1104b extending from the bracket. The mesh 1107 comprises a major meshsurface 1105 extending over the top of the plant 1101 and substantiallydown the longitudinal sides, and solid sections 1106 a-1106 b coupled tothe major mesh surface and adjacent the ground surface 1110. The solidsections 1106 a-1106 b may be anchored to the ground surface 1110 andprovide the same benefits as noted above for the embodiment of the plantcover device 1010 of FIG. 25. Although not shown, the plant cover device1010 illustratively comprises a coupling (e.g. a zip tie) between themajor mesh surface 1105 and the bracket 1103.

As will be appreciated, the pair of support arms 1104 a-1104 b is tosupport and abut the mesh 1107. In particular, the pair of support arms1104 a-1104 b is intended to prevent the major mesh surface 1105 fromresting on the plant 1101.

Referring now additionally to FIG. 29, another embodiment of the plantcover device 1200 is now described. In this embodiment of the plantcover device 1200, those elements already discussed above with respectto FIG. 28 are incremented by 100 and most require no further discussionherein. This embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in thatthis plant cover device 1200 illustratively includes a spreader device1208 comprising a plurality of brackets 1203 a-1203 c, and a pluralityof support arm pairs 1204 a-1204 f coupled respectively to the pluralityof brackets. The plurality of support arm pairs 1204 a-1204 f isvertically aligned.

Helpfully, in this embodiment of the plant cover device 1200, the plantcover device 1200 may cover two rows of the plants 1201 a-1201 b. Itshould be appreciated that the multiple bracket features of the plantcover device 1200 can be readily applied to the plant cover deviceembodiments of FIGS. 30-32. Also, in some embodiments, the support 1207may comprise a single piece where the brackets 1203 a-1203 c fit orslide thereover, but in other embodiments, the support may comprise aplurality of segments, and the brackets also couple the segmentstogether.

Referring now additionally to FIG. 30, another embodiment of the plantcover device 1300 is now described. In this embodiment of the plantcover device 1300, those elements already discussed above with respectto FIG. 28 are incremented by 200 and most require no further discussionherein. This embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in thatthis plant cover device 1300 illustratively includes the plurality ofspreader devices 1308 a-1308 d arranged laterally. Here, adjacentsupport arms 1304 b-1304 c from adjacent spreader devices 1308 a-1308 bflank respective plants 1301 a. Also, the plurality of support arm pairs1304 a-1304 h is arranged substantially parallel (i.e. ±20° of parallel)to the row of plants 1401 a-1401 c.

Referring now additionally to FIG. 31, another embodiment of the plantcover device 1400 is now described. In this embodiment of the plantcover device 1400, those elements already discussed above with respectto FIG. 28 are incremented by 300 and most require no further discussionherein. This embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in thatthis plant cover device 1400 illustratively includes the plurality ofspreader devices 1408 a-1408 d arranged interspersed between the plants1401 a-1401 c. Also, the plurality of support arm pairs 1404 a-1404 h isarranged substantially orthogonal (i.e. ±20° of) 90° to the row ofplants 1401 a-1401 c.

Referring now additionally to FIG. 32, another embodiment of the plantcover device 1500 is now described. In this embodiment of the plantcover device 1500, those elements already discussed above with respectto FIG. 28 are incremented by 400 and most require no further discussionherein. This embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in thatthis plant cover device 1500 illustratively includes the plurality ofspreader devices 1508 a-1508 b arranged laterally. Here, adjacentsupport arms 1504 a-1504 d are aligned over respective plants 1501a-1501 d. Also, the plurality of support arm pairs 1504 a-1504 d arearranged substantially parallel (i.e. ±20° of parallel) to the row ofplants 1501 a-1501 d.

Referring now additionally to FIG. 33, another embodiment of the plantcover device 1600 is now described. In this embodiment of the plantcover device 1600, those elements already discussed above with respectto FIG. 28 are incremented by 500 and most require no further discussionherein. This embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in thatthis plant cover device 1600 illustratively includes a spreader device1608 comprising a plurality of brackets 1603 a-1603 b, and a pluralityof support arm pairs 1604 a-1604 d coupled respectively to the pluralityof brackets. The plurality of support arm pairs 1604 a-1604 d isvertically aligned.

Helpfully, in this embodiment of the plant cover device 1600, the plantcover device 1600 may cover two rows of the plants 1601 a-1601 b. Thisplant cover device 1600 illustratively includes a coupling 1640 (e.g.zip tie, tether, wire) at an uppermost portion of the support 1602 foranchoring the mesh 1607 to the support. In this embodiment, theuppermost support arm pair 1604 a-1604 b abuts and supports the mesh1607 and prevents it from resting on the plants 1601 a-1601 b. Thelowermost support arm pair 1604 c-1604 d also abuts and supports themesh 1607 and prevents it from resting on the plants 1601 a-1601 b.

Referring now additionally to FIG. 34, another embodiment of the plantcover device 1700 is now described. In this embodiment of the plantcover device 1700, those elements already discussed above with respectto FIG. 33 are incremented by 100 and most require no further discussionherein. This embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in thatthis plant cover device 1700 illustratively includes the support 1702anchored in a pot 1741. The lowermost portion of the mesh 1707 iscoupled to the pot 1741 via a coupling 1742 (e.g. zip tie, tether,wire).

Referring now additionally to FIG. 35, another embodiment of the plantcover device 1800 is now described. In this embodiment of the plantcover device 1800, those elements already discussed above with respectto FIG. 30 are incremented by 400 and most require no further discussionherein. This embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in thatthis plant cover device 1800 illustratively includes respective supports1802 a-1802 d extend further upward, and respective couplings 1840a-1840 d at uppermost portions of the supports for coupling the supportsto the mesh 1807.

In the plant cover device 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800embodiments of FIGS. 28-35, the support arm pairs not only support themesh structure, but also provide support for the plants themselves.Moreover, these plant cover device 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600,1700, 1800 embodiments can be used without the mesh 1207, 1307, 1607,1707, 1807 and simply to support the plants.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the present disclosure willcome to the mind of one skilled in the art having the benefit of theteachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associateddrawings. Therefore, it is understood that the present disclosure is notto be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and thatmodifications and embodiments are intended to be included within thescope of the appended claims.

That which is claimed is:
 1. A plant cover device comprising: anenclosure comprising an upper end, a lower tubular end opposite saidupper end, and a medial seam coupling said upper end and said lowertubular end, said upper end comprising a plurality of panels coupledtogether to partially define a plant-receiving cavity therein, each ofsaid plurality of panels having a major mesh surface, and a panel seamextending along a peripheral edge of said major mesh surface, adjacentpanels being coupled together at respective panel seams, said lowertubular end comprising a major mesh surface and having a first end and asecond end opposite said first end, said first end being coupled to saidmedial seam, said lower tubular end also partially defining theplant-receiving cavity therein, and a curved flexible support carried bysaid medial seam; and a pole extending vertically from a surface to anapex of said enclosure.
 2. The plant cover device of claim 1 whereineach of said plurality of panels comprises a pentagon-shaped panel. 3.The plant cover device of claim 1 wherein each of said plurality ofpanels comprises a triangle-shaped section, and a rectangle shapedsection coupled to said triangle-shaped section, the respectivetriangle-shaped sections of said plurality of panels defining the apexof said enclosure and an uppermost portion of the plant-receivingcavity.
 4. The plant cover device of claim 1 wherein said second end ofsaid lower tubular end comprises a solid section at a lowermost end ofsaid lower tubular end.
 5. The plant cover device of claim 4 whereinsaid solid section is opaque to visible light radiation and waterproof.6. The plant cover device of claim 1 wherein said second end of saidlower tubular end comprises a drawstring coupled at a lowermost end ofsaid lower tubular end.
 7. The plant cover device of claim 1 whereinsaid curved flexible support comprises a loop-shaped support.
 8. Theplant cover device of claim 1 wherein said curved flexible supportcomprises a single piece flexible rod.
 9. The plant cover device ofclaim 1 wherein said medial seam comprises an annular sleeve; andwherein said curved flexible support is carried within said annularsleeve.
 10. The plant cover device of claim 1 wherein each mesh surfacecomprises a plurality of mesh openings, each opening having a diameterof less than 300 μm.
 11. A plant cover device comprising: an enclosurecomprising an upper end, a lower tubular end opposite said upper end,and a medial seam coupling said upper end and said lower tubular end andcomprising an annular sleeve, said upper end comprising a plurality ofpentagon-shaped panels coupled together to partially define aplant-receiving cavity therein, each of said plurality ofpentagon-shaped panels having a major mesh surface, and a panel seamextending along a peripheral edge of said major mesh surface, adjacentpentagon-shaped panels being coupled together at respective panel seams,said lower tubular end comprising a major mesh surface and having afirst end and a second end opposite said first end, said first end beingcoupled to said medial seam, said lower tubular end also partiallydefining the plant-receiving cavity therein, said second end of saidlower tubular end comprising a solid section at a lowermost end of saidlower tubular end, and a curved flexible support carried within saidannular sleeve of said medial seam; and a pole extending vertically froma surface to an apex of said enclosure.
 12. The plant cover device ofclaim 11 wherein each of said plurality of pentagon-shaped panelscomprises a triangle-shaped section, and a rectangle shaped sectioncoupled to said triangle-shaped section, the respective triangle-shapedsections of said plurality of pentagon-shaped panels defining the apexof said enclosure and an uppermost portion of the plant-receivingcavity.
 13. The plant cover device of claim 11 wherein said solidsection is opaque to visible light radiation and waterproof.
 14. Theplant cover device of claim 11 wherein said second end of said lowertubular end comprises a drawstring coupled at a lowermost end of saidlower tubular end.
 15. The plant cover device of claim 11 wherein saidcurved flexible support comprises a loop-shaped support.
 16. The plantcover device of claim 11 wherein said curved flexible support comprisesa single piece flexible rod.
 17. The plant cover device of claim 11wherein each mesh surface comprises a plurality of mesh openings, eachopening having a diameter of less than 300 μm.
 18. A method of making aplant cover device comprising: forming an enclosure comprising an upperend, a lower tubular end opposite the upper end, and a medial seamcoupling the upper end and the lower tubular end, the upper endcomprising a plurality of panels coupled together to partially define aplant-receiving cavity therein, each of the plurality of panels having amajor mesh surface, and a panel seam extending along a peripheral edgeof the major mesh surface, adjacent panels being coupled together atrespective panel seams, the lower tubular end comprising a major meshsurface and having a first end and a second end opposite the first end,the first end being coupled to the medial seam, the lower tubular endalso partially defining the plant-receiving cavity therein, and a curvedflexible support carried by the medial seam; and providing a pole toextend vertically from a surface to an apex of the enclosure.
 19. Themethod of claim 18 wherein each of the plurality of panels comprises apentagon-shaped panel.
 20. The method of claim 18 wherein each of theplurality of panels comprises a triangle-shaped section, and a rectangleshaped section coupled to the triangle-shaped section, the respectivetriangle-shaped sections of the plurality of panels defining the apex ofthe enclosure and an uppermost portion of the plant-receiving cavity.